Description:
Schedule: Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm
5 days a week
8 hours a day
The schedule has room for flexibility.
Housing: Housing Available
Dates: 05-16-2025 - 08-01-2025
Agency: National Park Service
Location: Bryce Canyon National Park
Overview:
Understanding the biogeochemical dynamics within the Claron Formation is essential for both its conservation and study. This project’s main focus is to survey crustal lichen within Bryce Canyon National Park, focusing on their attributes, and secondary products, while also recording other chemical and biological alteration in the rock. The methodology involves extensive fieldwork, where we will hike through the park to map the locations of lichen and rock alterations horizontally and vertically using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and trigonometry. Lichen species will be sent out for identification, and laboratory analyses—such as X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy (SEM)—may be employed to determine the mineral composition and morphological characteristics of the chemical byproducts. The expected results include a comprehensive report detailing significant findings from the survey. Key inquiries will investigate whether specific alterations are prevalent in certain areas, such as the orientation of slopes, proximity to water sources, and varying elevations. Additionally, we will assess whether these alterations contribute to the structural integrity of the rock and their potential implications for future geological stability. This study aims to identify areas of the Claron Formation that are most at risk of rockfall and to uncover possible triggers for these events. The insights gained will not only inform conservation efforts but also establish a critical foundation for future research, enhancing our understanding of the geological and biological dynamics within Bryce Canyon National Park.
Responsibilities:
Hiking the park and mapping relevant features using a tablet device.
Identify rocks and minerals.
Measure angles and use a compass.
Organize findings and write a final report.
Assist with other physical science duties on occasion such as collect air quality data and measure spring flow.
Qualifications:
This is an interdisciplinary project. Those with backgrounds in geology, biology, and chemistry will be considered. However, the focus will be on geology. The intern should therefore be able to identify basic rock types and be familiar with mineral identification techniques. Familiarity with GIS, compasses, and trigonometry is also encouraged. The intern should be prepared to hike in hot weather on rough terrain.
Accommodations may be available if applicant does not have a driver's license. If you do not, please note that on your application.
Intern will still be responsible for getting to and leaving Bryce Canyon at the beginning and end of internship.